The Artist's Workout

If you were to think of the creative process as being akin to athletic training, what might a typical workout routine look like? Robert Genn offers an idea in the latest edition of his Twice Weekly Letter (well worth subscribing to, if you don’t already):

Find a sanctuary where you can comfortably work.

Dedicate at least two hours a day to your art.

Have more than enough equipment and supplies.

Set short- and long-term goals and keep track of progress.

Think of your work as exercise, not championship play.

Explore series development and exhaust personal themes.

Work alone with the benefit of books and perhaps tapes.

Replace passive consumption with creative production.

Use your own intuition and master your technology.

Feel the joy of personal, self-generated sweat.

Fall in love with your own working processes.

Be forever on the lookout for the advent of style.

Try to be your own person and claim your rights.

Don’t bother setting yourself up for rejection.

Don’t swing too wildly and damage the well-being of others.

Don’t jump into the ring until you’re feeling fit.

Of course, workout routines are not one-size-fits-all, but this strikes me as a pretty good way to start.